Karl Warner, previously a digital executive at Channel 4, has taken up the role of Executive Vice President for UK Entertainment and Digital Development at BBC Studios.
In this newly created position, Warner will collaborate with the recently established BBC Studios Global Entertainment division. His focus will be on developing fresh intellectual property and formats for both the BBC’s platforms and other UK and international broadcasters.
A significant aspect of his role will involve working closely with Global Entertainment teams across the globe, particularly in the United States, to adapt international concepts for the UK audience. The new content generated will be produced by the BBC Studios Entertainment division, which is managed by Suzy Lamb.
Additionally, Warner will be tasked with creating new labels and bolstering existing divisions within BBC Studios, including the recently introduced Rebel Rebel Pictures.
Starting in November, Warner’s appointment marks a return to the BBC, where he previously served as a commissioning editor. He left his role as Channel 4’s Head of Youth and Digital amid a wave of budget cuts earlier this year. We first reported on the likelihood of his departure in February, with official confirmation following a month later. Caroline Hollick, who previously led drama at Channel 4, has recently taken on a new role at The North Road Company.
In his new position at BBC Studios, Warner will report to Matt Forde, the Managing Director of Global Entertainment.
With over 15 years in senior roles in the UK media landscape, Warner has a wealth of experience, having held commissioning positions at both BBC and Channel 4. He also founded the independent production company Electric Ray, backed by Sony Pictures Entertainment. Earlier in his career, he worked with NBCUniversal-owned Monkey Kingdom and Endemol, where he was involved in the production of Big Brother. Notably, while at the BBC, he contributed to the revival of Strictly Come Dancing in 2004.
Warner joined Channel 4 in 2018 as the Controller of E4, where he managed the entertainment division and spearheaded deals for shows like Taskmaster and I Literally Just Told You. He was also involved in the current E4 success Married at First Sight UK.
“I’m thrilled to welcome someone with Karl’s exceptional background and creativity to BBC Studios,” remarked BBC Studios’ Forde. “Building a dynamic hub of creative talent to foster UK hit shows across numerous platforms is a priority as we enhance our Global Entertainment sector. I eagerly await the innovations he and our talented new team will produce both in the UK and internationally.”
Warner expressed his excitement, stating, “After a decade away, I am overjoyed to return to the BBC, bringing a fresh global perspective. Joining BBC Studios in such a pivotal creative leadership role at this time is exhilarating. With its expansive reach, impressive catalogue of intellectual property, and unparalleled relationships with talent, there is no better place to cultivate new ideas that resonate with the next generation of viewers, alongside Suzy and the exceptional teams here.”